The essence of "Collaborative Law"
is the participants' shared belief that it is
in the best interest of clients and their families,
to resolve their differences without resorting
to litigation.

The collaborative approach uses an interdisciplinary
team approach that integrates the legal, emotional,
and financial aspects of divorce. Based on the
concept of generating the most favorable outcome
for all family members, especially children,
the collaborative team assists in resolving conflict
using cooperative strategies rather than adversarial
techniques and litigation. This approach allows
the parties to remain in control of the transformative
process while playing the key role in creating
realistic and successful outcomes.

BENEFITS OF THE
COLLABORATIVE APPROACH

>

Protects
children

>

Creates
a cooperative and non-adversarial environment

>

Addresses
the family's questions and concerns

>

Creates
an equitable co-parenting plan

>

Preserves
the dignity and self-respect of the parties

>

Preserves
privacy

>

Promotes
effective use of time

>

Allow
the parties to retain control of the process

>

Reduces
conflict, anxiety and uncertainty

>

Addresses
interim and long-term solutions

>

Promotes
the most effective use of financial and
emotional resources

COLLABORATIVE
TEAM MEMBERS
AND THEIR ROLES

Collaborative Coaches:

Assist clients to clarify concerns

Help set short and long term
goals

Foster co-parenting relationships

Manage difficult emotional stages

Develop communication skills

Child Specialist:

Listens to and supports children

Assists parents with children's
needs

Identifies co-parenting needs

Financial Counselor:

Creates realistic financial scenarios

Plans and budgets for the future

Assists in the understanding
of financial consequences of proposed
settlements

Collaborative Law Attorneys:

Examine needs with clients

Discuss legal options and obligations

Develop settlement options

Evaluate consequences and limitations

Client:

Works as the primary team member

Develops solutions to problems

Addresses issues directly with
the team

Promotes a successful family
outcome

If you're interested in learning more about the
collaborative process, contact a collaborative
professional at the following: